swain

swain

noun \ˈswān\

Definition of SWAIN

1

: rustic, peasant; specifically : shepherd

2

: a male admirer or suitor

— swain·ish \ˈswā-nish\ adjective

— swain·ish·ness noun

Examples of SWAIN

1. a fair maiden and her swain
2. <a romanticized portrait of a bygone era of beauteous Southern belles and their gallant swains>

Origin of SWAIN

Middle English swein boy, servant, from Old Norse sveinn; akin to Old English swān swain, Latin suus one's own — more at suicide

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SWAIN

Synonyms: beau, boy, fellow, man, old man, boyfriend

Related Words: admirer, crush, steady; gallant, suitor, wooer; beloved, darling, dear, favorite, flame, honey, love, lover, significant other, soul mate, spark, sparker, squeeze [slang], sweet, sweetheart, sweetie, sweetie pie, valentine; fancy man, gigolo; date, escort; groom, husband; fiancé, intended

see all synonyms and antonyms

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